What job will I get?

Physics is at the heart of many major and growing industries, from computing and nanotechnology, to renewable energy and space exploration. The specialist knowledge and practical skills that our students get from their degrees has helped them find jobs at organisations such as Rolls Royce, Toshiba, CERN, BAE Systems and the National Space Agency.

Many of our students continue their studies by doing a PhD or other postgraduate training, so they can pursue a career in academia or research. They can also apply their skills outside of science, in areas such as teaching, charity work, sales, marketing, accountancy and management.

Postgraduate study

If you're interested in continuing to study physics and astronomy, we run two masters degree courses and have a range of PhD opportunities available each year.

Applying science

During the summer of 2014 I gained work experience developing the second year physics laboratory at the University of Sheffield... After accepting my current job, I was later told that these experiences made my CV really stand out from other applicants.

Further study

I was lucky enough to be offered the chance to carry out my research project while working as a student support astronomer at the Isaac Newton Telescope in La Palma. This position gave me my first opportunity to experience life as an astronomer at an observatory.

Business

My degree prepared me for my career by developing my abilities in critical thinking and by helping me understand the fundamentals of how the world works... The ability to logically process and understand difficult concepts, which was incubated during my time at the University of Sheffield, has proven invaluable.

Support while you study

As a physics and astronomy student, you'll get lots of support to help you work out what you want to do after graduation, and the steps you need to take to get there. We host weekly careers talks, plus one-to-one careers advice sessions.

As part of the White Rose Industrial Physics Academy, we can set up collaborations between our students and industrial partners. By giving you hands-on experience of research and development projects with industry, WRIPA can help you get more skills and experience for your CV, and expand your career opportunities. We've also hosted the biggest specialist physics careers fair in the UK, in conjunction with WRIPA – students met staff from more than 40 companies.

The University's Careers Service runs workshops on CV and application writing, job hunting and preparing for interviews. They offer tips tailored to physics and astronomy students, events where you can meet employers, and opportunities to get work experience while you study. Schemes such as the 301 Academic Skills Certificate will help you show employers that you're ready for the world of work. The Careers Service will continue to support you for three years after you graduate.